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PC Darren Pemble, who is investigating the incident, said: "Although a number of people were treated for minor injuries, it is just fortunate that this did not cause a more serious, or even fatal, collision.

"We do not know where the metal drum came from, although we suspect it must have become detached from another vehicle.

"I would like to speak to anyone who can help us pinpoint how the drum ended up on the M23 or anyone who witnessed this incident, or can offer any more information."